This weekend, I was given eyes to see and experience so much beauty and wonder all around me:

*the miracle and promise of new life:

Our nephew's son at 9 weeks old

*having the opportunity to attend a Kathy Troccoli conference on Saturday with my friend Denise. Kathy’s subject was “Hope’s Alive” and there was one thing in particular she said that I have not been able to forget: “The resurrection says that the worst thing is NOT the last thing.” Amen and hallelujah!

*hearing birds singing and seeing the sun shining on the water of the lake, reminding me that the long winter is over and spring—and the promise of new beginnings—has arrived.

*catching a glimpse of little white dogs with bright pink tails walking along Main Street with their owners 🙂

*the welcome sight of our pastor’s wife in church on Sunday after a long absence. This dear lady has taught me so much about the reality of God’s matchless grace being able to powerfully sustain someone who has been dealing with heartbreaking health issues for several years. She is a radiant believer who chooses to cling to the truth of God’s Word rather than be mastered by her perplexing and often painful circumstances. Though small and fragile in stature, she is one mighty woman of God.

*listening to our pastor’s earnest plea for anyone who does not personally know Jesus to meet him at the front of the sanctuary so that they can be introduced to the God-Man, the One who paid a debt that He did not owe so that they can be free. It never fails to bring tears to my eyes to see a pastor standing at the altar, holding out the opportunity for anyone to enter into eternal life; representing our Creator God Himself, who tells us: “All day long, I hold out My hands…” (Isaiah 65:2). He is always waiting…and calling…and wooing hearts to come home to Him.

*a sweet little boy who has Down’s Syndrome arriving late to the service with his grandfather. On the way to his seat, he spotted our associate pastor sitting at the end of a pew. A joyous smile broke across his face and he ran up to young Pastor Steve and flung his small arms around his neck in total delight. Pastor Steve gleefully returned both the hug and the grin. I saw the heart of God in that moment.

*having the opportunity to go on a date with my husband. It was raining as we left the movie theater and I decided not to rush to the car to avoid the raindrops. Instead, I allowed myself to feel what it’s like to walk in the rain. It was nice. 🙂

“Each day offers us the gift of being a special occasion…it is blessed to receive with grace and a grateful heart.”—Sarah Ban Breathnach